Alabama lineman Deaderick wounded

• Tweet

TUSCALOOSA, Ala., Sept. 1 (UPI) -- Alabama defensive end Brandon Deaderick was in good condition Tuesday, recovering from a gunshot wound suffered in an attempted robbery.

Crimson Tide Coach Nick Saban said in a statement his concern was for his senior player's health, not whether he would be able to play Saturday against Virginia Tech, ESPN reported.

"We feel very fortunate that Brandon is doing well and that this is not a more serious situation," Saban said. "We are hopeful that his condition will continue to improve as we expect him to be released from the hospital later in the day today. Our concern at this time is for Brandon's continued recovery as our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family, not about when he will return to football."

The Tuscaloosa News reported Deaderick was hospitalized in Tuscaloosa with a wound to the forearm. The newspaper said Deaderick was approached by an armed man while in the parking lot of an off-campus apartment complex about 10 p.m. Monday. When the football player refused to give him anything, the assailant shot him, the News said.

Deaderick had started at defensive end all 14 Alabama games last season, making 36 tackles, and was listed as a starter again this year.